Hello Reader,

We had a terribly sad reminder last weekend that genetics can be a crapshoot sometimes. I was super excited about one of our first freshners this spring because she is the daughter of one of my favorite does and her sire is the son of another favorite doe. What happened?

Her sons got sold to a pet home on Sunday, and when we went to milk her that night, we got a terrible surprise. Not only were her teats the shortest I've seen in about 20 years, making her hard to hand milk, but when her udder was full, the teats pointed out to the side, making it hard for the milking machine inflations to stay on.

After wallowing in denial for a couple of days, I decided to call the person who bought the wethers and asked him if he'd like to have their mom as a pet without papers, and he said yes. So I'm happy that she's going to a great home with her sons, and I'm also really happy that I just bought the two new bucks from Rosasharn Farms a couple of weeks ago.

Choosing the right buck isn’t just about this year’s kids—it’s about shaping the future of your herd. In this new article, we explore advanced tips for selecting a herd sire that will improve conformation, milk production, and overall herd health for generations to come. If you’re serious about breeding, this guide is a must-read.

​Abomasal bloat is one of the most sudden and devastating conditions a bottle-fed baby goat can face, and I'm really happy that we've never had a case in 23 years. In this new article, you'll learn what causes it, how to spot early warning signs, and the best ways to prevent it from happening in your herd. Whether you're a first-time goat owner or a seasoned breeder, this is essential reading for anyone raising kids on a bottle.

Thinking about hatching your own chicks or improving your backyard flock? Breeding chickens can be both rewarding and practical—whether you're aiming for better egg production, hardier birds, or preserving rare breeds. This guide breaks down everything you need to know, from choosing the right breeding stock to incubation, hatching, and raising healthy chicks.

Think seasoning cast iron is complicated? It doesn’t have to be! This post breaks it down into simple steps so you can enjoy naturally non-stick, non-toxic cookware that lasts a lifetime. Whether you’re starting fresh or reviving a yard-sale find, you’ll learn exactly how to get that perfect, glossy finish.

🎧 Goat Worms: Myths & Misunderstandings Still deworming your goats on a calendar? It’s time to rethink everything you thought you knew about goat parasites. In this eye-opening episode, Dr. Michael Pesato joins me to bust common myths, explain why dewormer resistance is spreading, and share up-to-date, research-backed strategies for smarter parasite control. Listen in

▶ Can you REALLY ID goat worms in a fecal? Can you really tell which worms your goat has from a fecal exam? In this video, I explain why that’s a common misconception and what fecals can—and can’t—reveal. Learn why misleading lab results can delay treatment and how using a five-point check can help you make faster, more effective decisions for your goats. Watch video

📄Making Yogurt from Raw Goat Milk in Instant Pot Making yogurt at home has never been easier—or more delicious! If you have raw goat milk and an Instant Pot, you’re just a few simple steps away from creamy, tangy yogurt that’s healthier and more satisfying than anything store-bought. This guide walks you through the whole process, plus tips for success and troubleshooting. Try this recipe!

Happy homesteading!

​
Deborah
and the ThriftyHomesteader Team

You are receiving this email because you subscribed to our email list, downloaded a free resource from our website, or purchased one of our products, memberships, or courses.

PO Box 181, Cornell, IL 61319
​Unsubscribe · Preferences​

If you unsubscribe you'll be removed from all future emails. This includes important information and updates about products or courses you have purchased. If you want to opt out of a particular series of emails and don't see a link above to do so, just hit reply and let us know. We'll take care of it!